Story by Lisa Masuku Kurira
AUTHORITIES in Bulawayo Province have expressed concern over a marked increase in new sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases recorded in the third quarter of the year, underscoring persistent challenges linked to stigma, delayed treatment, and limited public awareness.
Data from the National AIDS Council (NAC) shows that more than 2 500 new STI cases were reported between July and September, up from about 1 400 cases in the preceding quarter. The rise follows 2,194 infections recorded in the first quarter, indicating fluctuating but sustained transmission rates across the year.
Bulawayo NAC Programmes Officer Mr Douglas Moyo said the trend reflects ongoing barriers to prevention and early intervention.
“In the first quarter of the year, we recorded 2 194 new STI infections. In the second quarter, the curve dropped a bit to 1 400 new STI clients, and in the third quarter it shot up to over 2 500. Health experts weighed in saying some of the factors fuelling the increase of STIs include stigma and lack of awareness,” Mr Moyo said.
Medical practitioners say fear of discrimination continues to discourage individuals from seeking testing and treatment. Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Vimbai Moyana Muguto noted that social attitudes remain a significant obstacle.
“Stigma plays a big role in the surge of these infections. People are afraid of being discriminated against. There is a lot of stigmatisation that comes with HIV or STIs. For example, you will find that if a couple is trying to get married and they go for testing, and one is found to be HIV positive. They start thinking that if I disclose to my partner, they will not accept me anymore,” she said.
NAC further revealed that in managing the 2,539 new STI cases recorded during the period, more than 300 contacts were traced and treated. Health experts emphasise that contact tracing remains critical in breaking chains of transmission and preventing long-term complications.
Authorities continue to call for intensified community education, reduced stigma, and improved access to sexual health services as Zimbabwe works towards its goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
